What Is a DUNS Number and Why Every Nigerian Startup Needs One
If you are trying to enrol in the Apple Developer Program, list your app on Google Play under a business account, register on SAM.gov for US government contracting, or access international business credit — you will get stuck until you have a DUNS number.
Most Nigerian founders encounter this requirement unexpectedly. Here is a clear explanation of what it is, why it exists, and how to get one in Nigeria without spending weeks on it.
What a DUNS number is
A DUNS number is a nine-digit identifier assigned by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) to businesses worldwide. DUNS stands for Data Universal Numbering System. It is the global standard for identifying a legal business entity.
Think of it as a business identity number — similar to a tax identification number, but used specifically for international business credentialing, credit checks, and compliance verification.
Unlike a company registration number (RC number), which is issued by the Corporate Affairs Commission in Nigeria, a DUNS number is issued by a private American company (D&B) and is recognised internationally.
Why Nigerian startups need one
Apple Developer Program
Apple requires a DUNS number for any developer enrolling as an organisation rather than an individual. If you are building an app for your startup — and you want it listed under your company name rather than a personal account — you cannot proceed without one.
Apple verifies your DUNS number against D&B's database before approving your organisation account. No DUNS, no approval.
Google Play Developer Account (business)
Google requires a DUNS number for business-level developer accounts on the Play Store. Individual accounts do not require it, but if you are operating as a company and want your app published under the company name, it is necessary.
SAM.gov and US Government Contracting
SAM.gov (System for Award Management) is the official US government procurement portal. Any Nigerian company seeking US federal contracts, grants, or partnerships through government programs must be registered on SAM.gov — which requires a DUNS number.
International business credit and partnerships
When international companies or investors check your business credibility, they often look up your D&B profile. A DUNS number with an associated profile signals that your business is a real, traceable entity — not a shell.
How to get a DUNS number in Nigeria
The official process (slow)
You can apply directly through the D&B website. The standard process is free but takes several weeks — sometimes longer if there are documentation issues or verification delays.
What you need:
- Registered company name (CAC-registered)
- RC number
- CAC certificate and latest CAC status report
- Business address
- Primary contact name and phone number
- Line of business description
D&B will call or email to verify your details before issuing the number.
The assisted process (fast)
I offer a DUNS number acquisition service for Nigerian businesses with a flat fee of ₦100,000 and a seven-day turnaround.
This is for founders who need the number quickly — typically because they are already mid-way through an Apple, Google, or SAM.gov application and hit the DUNS requirement without warning.
The service handles the D&B application, verification follow-up, and confirmation — without you needing to navigate the D&B system yourself.
Get your DUNS number in 7 days →
Common questions
Can I use a DUNS number assigned to a different company? No. A DUNS number is tied to a specific legal entity. Using another company's number is fraudulent and will result in rejection by Apple, Google, or SAM.gov.
Does my sole proprietorship qualify? Yes. D&B issues DUNS numbers to sole proprietorships, partnerships, and limited liability companies. You do not need to be a formally registered limited company, though having a CAC registration makes verification faster.
Does the DUNS number expire? No. Once issued, a DUNS number is permanently tied to your business. It does not need to be renewed, though your D&B profile information can be updated.
What if my company name changed after CAC registration? Submit the updated information during the application. D&B will verify against your current legal name.
What to do after you get your DUNS number
Once your number is issued, keep a record of it alongside your RC number and other business credentials. You will need it for:
- Apple Developer Program enrollment form
- Google Play organisation verification
- SAM.gov registration
- Some international procurement and partnership applications
If you are applying for the Apple Developer Program specifically, allow two to three additional business days after receiving your DUNS number for D&B's database to propagate — Apple's verification system pulls from D&B's live data.
If you need your DUNS number fast, the seven-day service is available here.